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Age Quote by Thomas Bailey Aldrich

“The walking delegates of a higher civilization, who have nothing to divide, look upon the notion of property as a purely artificial creation of human society. According to these advanced philosophers, the time will come when no man shall be allowed to call anything his. The beneficent law which…” quote by Thomas Bailey Aldrich
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“The walking delegates of a higher civilization, who have nothing to divide, look upon the notion of property as a purely artificial creation of human society. According to these advanced philosophers, the time will come when no man shall be allowed to call anything his. The beneficent law which takes away an author's rights in his own books just at the period when old age is creeping upon him seems to me a handsome stride toward the longed-for millennium.”

Thomas Bailey Aldrich

About This Quote

Source Essay: Social Commentary, 19th century literature

Advanced societies might view property as a human construct, and future laws could eliminate personal ownership, even of creative works.

In simple terms: Property may become obsolete in a future egalitarian world.

Key Takeaway

Consider the impact of shared ownership.

Themes

equality property future societies author rights

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical speculative

When to use this quote

  • political theory
  • intellectual property reform
  • future governance
  • ethical debates

Key Concepts

philosophical legal economic

Questions to Reflect On

  • Will removing ownership hinder innovation?
  • How would creators be motivated without personal rights?
A Different Perspective

Eliminating rights may stifle individual creativity.

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